Pool landscaping is a necessity for your backyard oasis. Your pool may have been installed for several years and you feel you need a new look or you may be adding a pool.
By landscaping your pool area you add beauty and comfort to your backyard and will create that perfect area to relax and entertain.
The selection of plants will vary depending on your climate, backyard needs and if the pool is an in-ground pool or an above ground pool.
In-ground pool
Trees, shrubs and certain smaller plants should be kept away from the edge of an in-ground pool because their roots could crack the side of a pool and create a pool that leaks. One suggestion if you want small trees near the pool, grow them in movable containers.
Another item placed near the pool would be a security or privacy fence. This needs to be far enough away from the pool as to not crowd the area and give a feel of space. You could also locate any trees or shrubs outside of the fence, usually about 4-foot way from the fence so that the roots and any limbs will not create havoc to the fence.
Annuals and perennial plants will also not do well near a pool. They do not like chlorine and will more than likely be exposed to it by pool activity. One option is to again place plants in containers that can be moved and would also offer them protecting from the pool.
When planning your trees, shrubs and plants for outside a fence or further away from a pool its always best to keep the size of any taller shrub or tree small in stature. This will prevent your pool from ending up filled with leaves.
Above ground pools
And for above ground pools, the same for trees and shrubs apply, keep them smaller the size near the pool. And if you live in a neighborhood with children to have children a security fence is a must to keep children out of the pool unattended! A pool cover is also helpful to keep children out of the pool when not being used.
The above ground pool and your backyard will benefit from finding a way to enclose any areas that are open and expose the pool workings. This can be done with shrubs, flowers or a small decorative fence area.
The most important consideration when landscaping around your pool is to blend it into your backyard so that you add to the comfort and relaxation of your private oasi